Continent Studs- Traveler's Edition

Continent Studs- Traveler's Edition

Continent Studs- Traveler's Edition

These post earrings are handcrafted, in the truest sense of the word. This pair’s most primitive form is a piece of sheet metal, the beginning of these continent shapes. After measuring and drawing, the next step is the cutting, bit-by-bit. None of the detail has emerged at this point, only the vague silhouette. So, I take my hand-held filing tools and whittle it down, creating the valleys, curves and protrusions. With time and effort, steady hands and fixed eyes, these pieces start to look more and more like what you see.

Next, its hammer time for texturing, doming and lettering. Then more filing, polishing and tempering with a torch to create the patina. There is something about aged copper... the tones, coloration and uniqueness of every shade that creates a beautiful harmony. One of the final steps is soldering the pieces to copper-plated, stainless steel earring posts; these work well for individuals like me with sensitive ears! Last but not least, I coat it with a clear, gloss, acrylic sealer to slow the aging process.